Do you know anyone who doesn’t have a skincare routine? Probably not. Everyone’s doing it and you can’t escape the products. They truly are everywhere—Korean skincare, La Roche Posay. But it wasn’t always like this. In fact, a history book can show you a lot about its transformation. Back in the day, skincare tied in with cultural traditions, scientific breakthroughs, and societal shifts. It reminds us that skincare is both timeless and ever-evolving. And maybe we can make football predictions, but can we make skincare predictions too? Let’s find out.
Cleopatra’s Milk and Honey Baths
One of the most iconic chapters in skincare practices is ancient Egypt. The legendary Cleopatra made skincare surpass mere aesthetic concerns. As renowned as she was for her political prowess, Cleopatra also had a commitment to skincare. Central to her routine were the opulent milk and honey baths.
The use of milk and honey in her routine was a hedonistic indulgence. But also, it was a deliberate choice. She believed that these natural elements held nourishing and rejuvenating properties. Milk acted as a gentle exfoliant, which led to skin renewal and a luminous complexion. Honey had natural humectant properties, which moisturized and softened the skin. It contributed to a youthful and supple appearance.
These lavish baths were a reflection of the cultural emphasis on holistic well-being. In ancient Egypt, beauty was connected to concepts of health, spirituality, and divine symbolism. Skincare became a ritualistic practice. As a result, it symbolized purity, vitality, and a harmonious connection with the natural world.
Greek Elegance: Olive Oil for Radiant Complexions
The ancient Greeks were also pretty big on skincare. Here, people opted for natural ingredients, most notably olive oil. Sworn to maintain a radiant complexion, olive oil wasn’t confined to the kitchen.
Olive oil is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fatty acids, so it’s no wonder that it became a staple for skin health and radiance. Its moisturizing properties provided an effective shield against dryness. Not only that, but olive oil also served as a natural cleanser and makeup remover.
The elegance associated with their skincare regimen went beyond surface-level aesthetics. It became a symbol of purity through which individuals could connect with the bountiful gifts of nature.
A Pause in the Middle Ages
The Middle Ages were characterized by hectic social, economic, and political changes. During these times, the emphasis on appearance and grooming waned. Instead, people focused on survival, warfare, and religious upheavals.
The conditions limited access to resources and the prevalence of diseases. It shifted the consciousness away from the indulgences associated with skincare. In fact, excessive attention to one’s appearance was often viewed with suspicion.
Queen Elizabeth I and Venetian Ceruse
In the Renaissance era, a renewed focus on aesthetics emerged. Queen Elizabeth I’s influence popularized the use of Venetian ceruse. This lead-based cosmetic was quite popular despite its harmful effects on health. Venetian ceruse was a whitening cosmetic that soon became a symbol of fashionable elegance.
During this era, everyone was working towards achieving a pale complexion no matter the consequences. It didn’t matter that it had lead in it—or perhaps they weren’t yet aware of its dangers. The pursuit of beauty took precedence over health considerations.
Commercial Skincare’s Modest Beginnings
Commercial skincare marked the 19th century—it was the trend of the century. Pears Soap and Colgate introduced soaps and creams to the market, making skincare accessible to the masses.
Scientific Advancements Transforming Skincare
The discovery of vitamins was significant in the 20th century. More and more scientific breakthroughs transformed skincare formulations. These innovations paved the way for a more nuanced approach to beauty.
Coco Chanel’s Influence in the 1920s
Coco Chanel had her fair share of influence. Soon, there was a new craze for bronzed complexions, and everyone wanted to be tan.
Cosmeceuticals and Anti-Aging Wonders
Cosmeceuticals were the next big thing in the second half of the 20th century. It blended cosmetic and pharmaceutical attributes. Ingredients like retinoids and alpha hydroxy acids took center stage.
21st Century: Technology Redefining Skincare
In the 21st century, lasers and LED therapy became game-changers in skincare. These kinds of innovations took routines to new heights of effectiveness.
K-Beauty and Natural Ingredients
When Korean beauty products became accessible, nobody saw how this craze would take over. This was accompanied by the shift towards natural ingredients. Thanks to this, there was growing awareness of environmental considerations in skincare.
Social Media Era: Influencers and Beauty Trends
The advent of social media transformed skincare. Influencers and beauty bloggers started shaping trends, sharing routines, and influencing product choices.
Skincare Today: A Lifestyle and Personalized Regimens
Now, skincare is not a routine. People view it as a lifestyle. Everyone has a multi-step skincare routine and uses products they swear by. And the more people discover the range of skin types, the more personalized these routines become.
From CBD Infusions to Modern Innovations
The industry continues to evolve, incorporating CBD-infused products and embracing modern innovations. This provided enthusiasts with a plethora of choices for achieving radiant, healthy skin.
